Martha Mburli Lingong 

Life took a transformative turn in 2022 when I came into contact with Open Dreams. At the time, I was searching  for direction, for community, and for a deeper way to contribute to the world around me. I didn’t know then that this single encounter would become a powerful catalyst, igniting a renewed sense of purpose and possibility in my life. Open Dreams gave me more than an opportunity, it gave me a platform, a voice, and a family of like-minded changemakers.

As a Program Facilitator, I have had the honor of walking alongside hundreds of brilliant, determined young people from across Cameroon and beyond. I design and lead youth development workshops, academic mentorship programs, and training sessions on leadership, career planning, and scholarship navigation. I offer not only tools and strategies, but also a listening ear and an open heart  because I know from personal experience how vital that support can be.

My journey has always been deeply rooted in empowerment  especially for women and youth. I am the founder of African Industrious Ladies, a platform through which I mentor young women from broken or marginalized backgrounds, helping them rediscover their worth and walk confidently into their future. I also lead Youth for Peace and Development (YPD), an organization dedicated to transforming communities through peacebuilding, development, and leadership training. At the heart of both organizations is a simple but profound belief: when young people, especially girls and women, are empowered , societies flourish.

Beyond grassroots work, my academic path mirrors my passion. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Journalism and Conflict Resolution at the University of Derby, sponsored by the Commonwealth Scholarship. My research explores multilingual mediation practices in conflict reporting  a topic closely tied to the lived realities of Cameroon and many multicultural, post-conflict societies. I believe in the transformative power of language, not only as a tool of communication but as a bridge to peace.

Through every stage of my journey , from the classrooms of Cameroon to national conferences on youth and peace, from ESL instruction to cultural advocacy with the Toghu Association, I have remained guided by a clear mission: to empower, educate, and elevate.

Open Dreams has played an integral role in this mission. It has been both a springboard and a compass, sharpening my vision and expanding my reach. I am deeply committed to giving back, to lighting the way for others as it was once lit for me.

In all I do, I strive to embody the values of resilience, purpose, and service  and to remind every young person I meet that no dream is too big when you are seen, supported, and believed in.